Microsoft's Windows XP
Professional reinstall step by step on a used hard drive

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to Microsoft's Windows XP Professional reinstall guide for
earlier versions released without a pre-installed service pack or service
pack1. This guide
is step by step and should be used when reinstalling onto a used hard
drive (Or a hard drive that has had an operating system before).

This is a clean install of windows (Which will remove the
contents of the hard drive, so backup first) and should be trouble
free of errors and problems as long as your system fits the minimum specs as
laid down by Microsoft.

Special Notes:

Windows should
see the hard drive during setup, if not then use this guide:
See here

Your Windows XP Professional CD

Windows XP COA, or serial number.

Your computer Plugged into Mains Power

A Computer, with the usual accessories (Mouse,
monitor, keyboard etc)

CD-ROM/DVD Drive.

To start this Windows install. First check that the first boot
device in your system BIOS is set to the CD-ROM Drive.

( To find out how to access the BIOS please refer to your
motherboard manual or the manufacturer of your Computer. (The system bios can
usually be entered on boot, usually by pressing the F1, F2, F8, F10 or DEL key.
Make sure you save the settings before exiting))

If you are unsure or don't want to enter the BIOS then just test
the computer by putting the CD-ROM in the drive and reboot your computer. This is the recommended way to
install windows.

Now it is time to personalize Windows. File in your name and
if you wish you can also file in the Organization section. Click
"NEXT" when ready.

Now it is time for your product key. The product key will be
on the packaging that XP was supplied with. It is 25 digits long. Some OEM
computers will have a sticker on the side or back with your product key. Input
the key and press "NEXT".

Now select your computer name and your admin password. Confirm
the Admin password and press "NEXT".

Date and Time settings are next, change as need be, then press
"NEXT".

Windows will then continue installing.

PART 6

If a network card has been detected then you will get the
following menu. Select "TYPICAL SETTINGS" and press next. This
configured later in Windows.

More network configuration, change workgroup name if need be
and click "NEXT".

Windows will continue installing.

Windows install will now finalize.

It is now time to restart Windows XP again, press
"ENTER" to speed up process, otherwise Windows will do it itself in
15 seconds.

Boot will recognize that the XP CD is in the drive, DO NOT
press any keys, let setup bypass the CD boot.

Windows will continue loading.

PART 7

Windows will now adjust your resolution, click "OK"
to continue.

If you are happy with the changes, click "OK"
otherwise press "Cancel" to return to the old settings

"Help protect my PC" screen now appears, click top
option to enable Microsoft's Firewall, Automatic updates and virus
checker warning. It is recommended to do this even if you wish to
put your own firewall on later. Only select "Not Right Now" if you
not intend to use the internet. Once you select your option, press
"Next".

Internet connection option is next. If your computer
connects to a Professional network or directly using the network card, or is
on a network then select "Yes", otherwise select "No".

Activate Windows option appears next, we recommend
that you select "No, remind me every few days", that will allow you
to make sure everything is correct and running OK before you use up
one of your activate attempts. It also allows you to setup your
security options and internet connection correctly. Click "Next to
continue"

Windows now thanks you, click "Finish" to continue.

Windows will now apply your settings...

Now Windows "WELCOME" screen.

and finally the Windows XP Desktop. Windows is now
installed.

If you are lucky you will have no drivers to
install, but chances are the next step will be to install them.
Check out device manager for unknown devices, likely items are
Network Cards, Sound Cards, Printers, Scanners, Graphics Cards,
Digital Cameras, etc.

As you done an upgrade you may want to download the
latest drivers for all your hardware, and check your programs also
as some may not work or require updates.